Sirius Black
The capital and most populous city of the Australian state of Victoria is Melbourne. Often referred to as the 'culture capital of Australia', Melbourne is an urban metropolis with many fascinating attractions and sights. The city is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, as it is known for its cultural festivals, arts and entertainments.
The Melbourne Cricket Grounds, known more commonly as the MCG, is one of the most iconic cricket stadiums in the world. Known for being the largest stadium is Australia, and the largest cricket stadium by capacity in the world, the MCG is undoubtedly the most famous sports venue in Melbourne. Hosting cricket matches of all formats, the MCG is a must-visit sports venue for any cricket lover. Although the MCG is primarily a cricket ground, the stadium also hosts many AFL games throughout the regular AFL season. For a comfortable stay in one of the most recommendable apartment hotels Melbourne located close to the MCG make a reservation at the Oaks on Collins.
The Ethihad Stadium is a multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex which is always buzzing with activity. Hosting over 50 AFL matches per season, Rugby Union tests, Rugby League matches, Big Bash Cricket League matches, and qualifying matches for the FIFA World Cup, you can be assured that there is some sporting event happening at the Ethihad Stadium, at least during the weekends. With over 34 million visitors having crossed the threshold of the stadium, this stadium is without a doubt one of the most famous sports venues of Melbourne. The Ethihad Stadium also plays host to numerous entertainment events, and has hosted concerts of music legends such as U2, ACDC, Coldplay, and Bon Jovi.
The Rod Laver Arena, named after legendary tennis player Rod Laver, is a multi-purpose sports arena. Located in Melbourne Park, the Rod Laver Arena is most noted as being the host of the Australian Open tennis tournament since 1988. With a plexicushion main court and a few other temporary grass courts, the Rod Laver Arena is the main hub of tennis is Melbourne. The arena has a seating capacity of 15,000 and hosts numerous tennis matches. The arena is also the site of many entertainment events and concerts.
Located in Albert Park is the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, a sports venue with international standards. The Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre is arguably the best venue for swimming, diving and other aquatic sports, as the Centre is home to 50m indoor and outdoor pools suited for international swimming events, diving pools, and many other multi-purpose pools. The Centre was the site of the 2006 Commonwealth Games and the 2007 World Aquatics Championships. The Centre also has 10 indoor basketball courts, 10 squash courts, and 12 badminton courts. Thus, the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre hosts numerous sporting events such as swimming championships and NBL matches,
The Flemington Racecourse is Melbourne's premier horse racing venue, and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Established in 1840 and home to a track with a 2,300m circumference, the Flemington Racecourse offers an action packed racing experience. The racecourse is renowned for hosting the Australia Cup, Australia's richest horse racing event, as well as events such as the Craiglee Stakes, Black Caviar Lightning, the Melbourne Cup, The Age Classic, the Bobby Lewis Quality, and the VRC Queen Elizabeth Stakes.
